Siza studied at the University of Porto School of Architecture from 1949 through 1955, completing his first built works (four houses in Matosinhos) even before ending his studies in 1954. That same year he opened his private practice in Porto. In 1966, Siza began teaching at the University, and in 1976, he was made a tenured Professor of Architecture. Has been a guest lecturer at many universities and conferences throughout the world, from the United States, Colombia and Argentina to Spain, Germany, France, Norway, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria and England in Europe. In recent years, he has received honors from foundations and institutions in Europe, including, the Alvar Aalto Foundation Gold Medal in 1988, the renowned Mies van der Rohe Foundation Award the Borges & Irmão Bank in Vila do Conde, Portugal (1982-86). Received the Priztker Award in 1992 and in 2012 was awarded with the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement of the 13th International Architecture Exhibition.